This step by step diy woodworking project is about a 18×20 outdoor gable pavilion plans. This is a large structure that requires 8×8 and 8×14 beams for the main structure. Therefore, you need lifting equipment and specialized cutting tools to assemble this outdoor structure. Take a look over the rest of our woodworking plans, if you want to get more building inspiration. Check out the Shop, as well, for full list of Premium Plans.
When buying the lumber, you should select the planks with great care, making sure they are straight and without any visible flaws (cracks, knots, twists, decay). Investing in cedar or other weather resistant lumber is a good idea, as it will pay off on the long run. Use a spirit level to plumb and align the components, before inserting the galvanized screws, otherwise the project won’t have a symmetrical look. If you have all the materials and tools required for the project, you could get the job done in about a day. See all my Premium Plans HERE.
Projects made from these plans
18×20 Gable Pavilion – DIY Plans
Building-a-18×20-gable-pavilion
Cut + Shopping Lists
Tools
Hammer, Tape measure, Framing square, Level
Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander
Time
One week
Related
- PART 1: 18×20 Pavilion Plans
- PART 2: 18×20 Pavilion Roof Plans
It’s that easy to build a large gazebo!
How to build a 18×20 pavilion – laying out
Laying-out-the-posts
First, layout the posts for the 18×20 pavilion. Use batter boards and string to determine the location of the posts. Apply the 3-4-5 rule to every corner of the pavilion, so you make sure they are right angled. Make sure the diagonals are equal. Determining the location for the pavilion is essential, as you have to comply with the local building codes. Make sure the surface is level and remove the vegetation layer.
Setting the posts in concrete
Dig 3 ft holes into the ground, making sure they have about 12″ in diameter. Fit the tubes then the posts into the ground and plumb them with a spirit level. Use temporarily braces to make sure the posts are locked into placed while filling the holes with concrete. Let the concrete dry out for several days. Read the local codes for more details on how to secure the posts.
This project requires 8×8 lumber for the posts (actual dimensions 7 1/2″x7 1/2″)
Use lag screws to secure the posts to the anchors. Before pouring the concrete you need to make sure the top of the posts are horizontal one to another. Use a laser to mark the level to the top of the posts and use a circular saw, if you need to make cuts.
Building the frame of the large pavilion
Top beams
Use 8×14 lumber for the rails. Mark the cut lines on the beams and then make the cut outs with a circular saw and a chisel. Smooth the surface with sandpaper. Use 8×14 lumber for the other rails, as well. Set the circular saw at 63/4″ and then make parallel cuts inside the marked areas. Clean the recess with a chisel and sandpaper.
Actual dimensions for 8×14 lumber are 7 1/2″x13 1/2″.
Fitting-the-top-plates
Fit the top rails to the sides of the pavilion. Notice the 24″ overhangs to the front and back of the pavilion. Drill pilot holes through the plates and insert 12″ screws to lock them to the posts. Use 2 screws for each joint. Make sure the corners are square and plumb the posts vertically.
Fitting-the-crossbeams
Fit the cross plates to the pavilion. Align the edges flush and drill pilot holes. Insert the 12″ screws to lock the cross plates into place tightly.
Fitting-the-braces
Build the braces for the front and back of the pavilion from 8×8 lumber. Use a miter saw to make 45 degree cuts to both ends of the braces. Fit the braces to the posts, after you plumb them vertically. Drill pilot holes and insert 8″ screws to secure the braces into place tightly. Insert 2 screws for each joint.
Building the roof of the pavilion
Fitting the supports for ridge beam
Center the 8×8 supports to the top of pavilion. Plumb the supports with a spirit level. Use post to beam connectors and 2 1/2″ structural screws to secure the supports to the frame of the pavilion.
Fitting-the-ridge-beam
Fit the 8×14 ridge beam to the supports with post to beam connectors. Make sure the corners are square. Use 2 1/2″ structural screws to lock the connectors into place.
Attaching-the-ridge-beam-braces
Use 8×8 lumber for the braces. Make 45 degree cuts at both ends of the braces. Secure the braces into place with 5 1/2″ screws. Drill pilot holes before inserting the screws.
Finishing touches
18×20 gable pavilion – all dimensions
Check out PART 2 of the project to learn how to build the gable roof.
18×20 gable pavilion – side view
18×20 gable pavilion
Fill the holes with wood putty and let them dry out for a few hours. Smooth the surface with 100-220 grit sandpaper and remove the residues with a damp cloth.
Top Tip: Apply a few coats of paint or stain to the components, to enhance the look of the project. Premium Plans for this project available Here. Check out the Shop, as well, for full list of Premium Plans. Press the GET PDF PLANS button bellow, if you want to get the Premium Plans with the full Cut and Shopping lists included, as well as with the cut layout diagram.
This woodworking project was about 18×20 gable pavilion plans. If you want to see more outdoor plans, check out the rest of our step by step projects and follow the instructions to obtain a professional result.
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